Swap Shop

www.southernsenior.info 13 children use the cafeteria. And it’s obvi- ous it’s more than just a job for Ann. “Oh, I enjoy it, being around the children, especially the kindergarteners. Some- times they tell me they need a hug,” she said with a twinkle in her eyes. “I love my co-workers, everything about it (her job).” Ann said that you must keep your house ‘straight’ especially when you live alone. On the decision to move to Picayune and how it’s been here, Ann responded quickly. “I like it here or I would not have moved here. I’m very happy because I have good friends and good neighbors,” she shared. She also wanted to thank one of her neighbors and her son for being there for her. “I have a great neighbor in Carol Hurt. I can always depend on her and my son Robin.” Robin lives in River Ridge (New Orleans surburb) and he comes to check on her and does things for her. Carol says she stays busy doing things at home and recently has been packing up some items for her grandchildren who live in Baton Rouge area and Pass Christian. When asked about what advice she would give to the teenagers of today’s genera- tion, she said, “The world has changed. These teenagers today would not do what we did. I would tell them to keep listening to your parents and do what your parents tell you to do.” She paused and added, “And always ap- preciate your parents because you only have one momma and one daddy. When they are gone, you’re are going to miss them.” She also is concerned about her commu- nity and things she is feels are needed to be taken care of, and is not bashful about stating those. For example, she does not like litter. “I’ve call the city of Picayune numerous times about the trash in the drainage ditch behind my house that runs from Palestine Road to near Goodyear Blvd. It looks bad and needs to be cleaned out,” she stated. Her love for life is evident and even stronger than ever. At 89 years old, she has no plans to slow down, in fact, that is what appears to why she is able to do what she does so well. Her secret to liv- ing a long life is not really a secret per se, but just a simple and easy to understand advice. “Someone told me that when people get older and just sit around, they fall apart. So, say to keep going. Stay busy, keep active. Don’t ever give up. If you lose a spouse, just keep going. Never stop.” S